What draws us into an outdoor garden?
Is it just the plantings? The landscape design? Well, often when I look at a picture of a gorgeous garden, I am drawn to the ornaments. The perfect bench. A solitary birdbath. A lion sprewing wall fountain. A statue peeking out from behind the hydrangeas.
Well, for inspiration for your garden (real or imagined), look no further than Barbara Israel. Specializing in antique garden ornaments since 1985, Barbara has also developed a unique line of composition stone reproductions.
Don’t we all dream of our own Secret Garden?
I don't exactly know what draws us to gardens, besides the important fact that they are beautiful. Ornaments can give that extra elegant or romantic look. I love benches and fountains. Off to check out your link:)
I've known Barbara personally for many years (she's a high school classmate of mine's aunt!) and her antiques really turn a garden into a little piece of heaven!
xxoo
Spectacular! I am so drawn especially to older more mature gardens, whose plantations are lush and overflowing..there is a kind of magical quality to these gardens then you throw in some antiqued gorgeous statuary or fountains, and voila it is the crowning touch. There is nothing as calming or serene as being in a quiet, beautiful garden. Gorgeous Elizabeth!
My son is excited about the campus he will attend, which he told me was designed by Frederick Law-Olmstead, the same designer who designed Central Park. The gardens you posted make me want to go and paint plein-air! Maybe Barbara would not mind that…ya think?
pve
Absolutely gorgeous!!! Take care, Caroline
Wow, these gardens are gorgeous! I have such a love for gardens, landscaping and doing the work myself. I especially love that these gardens have an element of age to them, they appear to be maintained but not overly manicured. Looking forward to seeing you tonight!
I have ALWAYS wanted to go there. I love garden ornaments and have long admired her collection from antique shows!
Lynn
spectacular and i love how the landscaping is so sculptural! also how fun that you knew Sue from the NY Diary house tour that i did recently1? small world, isn't it?:-). XX
Wish I was enjoying my morning coffee on that sweet white bench! I love a gorgeous garden and agree, the little details can make all the difference. We're in the process of updating our gardens and landscaping and Barbara Israel looks like such a great resource. Thanks for sharing!
Hope you had a lovely birthday,
Jeanne
Very pretty! My secret garden would also come with a gardener!
xo Cathy
Just adore Barbara Israel's beautiful garden accoutrements!! I haven't visited her site in years – you've given me the impetus to hop on over!!
how peaceful and divine is that first image of the garden! i could spend hours wasting away in there!
ellen @ mulberry heights
Gorgeous–Sadly, I have a black thumb, so either I will have to marry a green-thumbed man or have the money for a gardener, ha!
What peaceful photos.
I love a good garden – preferably an old one that has really big trees. In fact I have a real and deep love for trees and adore sitting near or under them.
What draws me to a garden is the sense of closeness to nature that always quiets my mind and makes me feel harmonious and safe. Has such a calming effect on a busy buzzing mind.
Beautiful post my friend.
x Charlotta
I would love a secret garden 🙂 These all look like such beautiful, relaxing places to spend an afternoon. They remind me of Versailles!
I love a lush garden. I find I am drawn to the different colors, textures of leaf shapes in a garden. Sometimes they are almost as pretty as a flower to me. I love a well placed garden ornament. This garden is gorgeous and it is so beautifully appointed, Kathysue
Oh my, lush indeed! I can only imagine how crazy my little plot of land looks since we've been gone. I'll just think of this when the reality starts to make me cringe 🙂 XO, Kelly